Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for window repair signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash upvc window repair repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a upvc window repair are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window repair sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.